When applying for a new job, prospective employers often ask the loaded question, “Please provide details of your salary history and/or salary requirement” to filter applicants. As an intelligent applicant wanting to maximize your future salary, you should tread carefully. It's so difficult to figure out what magic number they are looking for! Ask for a number too high or too low and you risk being screened out.

First strategy would be to try and postpone sharing these numbers with the employer till as late as possible because the longer you withhold the information, the stronger your bargaining power will be. But if the employer insists, don’t ignore the requests and ‘fess up, “I didn’t reply to the HR person’s repeated emails requesting my salary expectations and so I guess they black-balled me because I never heard back!”

When it comes to divulging salary history, there really is no option but to provide the list. Don’t for a second consider lying. Why start on a dishonest note?

However, if you feel that you were underpaid in a previous job, do make your case and explain the additional benefits/ rationale (e.g. Good insurance package/ higher bonus component/ pay cut across the board due to economic downturn) that made you accept the lower salary. In addition, if there has been a significant change in your circumstances (e.g. You have received a new degree or certification/ you have switched careers) explain that your previous salary should not influence your future one, as it would not be apples to apples comparison. (Also read: Discussing salary history with the recruiter)

When quizzed on your salary requirement, you should always ask for a slightly higher salary than your market value and salary goals. You should research this number well before you apply. Your value will depend on factors such as the geographical location, industry trends and demand-supply dynamics, remuneration of others in a similar position to the one you have applied for and company-specific policies. Instead of providing a single figure, you can also consider providing an acceptable range. Back this up by ‘selling yourself’- explain how you will be able to add significant value to the organisation based on the impact you will make/ the problems you will solve/ the revenue you will generate. (Also read: Tips for negotiating your salary)

Finally, always end by including a statement about your salary flexibility. This gives the employer the option of getting back to you even if their offer is different from your requirement, and the ball will once more be in your court. You can evaluate their number and overall package and decide. (Also read: Salary negotiation skills)